Back in Black by AC/DC

Back in Black is a legendary song by the Australian hard rock band AC/DC. It was released in 1980 as the title track from the album Back in Black. The song has gained immense popularity over the years and is considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time.

History of Back in Black

The story behind the creation of Back in Black is heartbreaking. In 1980, AC/DC's lead singer Bon Scott died due to alcohol poisoning. The band was devastated and unsure if they should continue without their frontman. However, they decided to move forward and find a new lead vocalist. They eventually hired Brian Johnson as their new lead singer and started working on their next album, which would become Back in Black.

Back in Black was recorded in the Bahamas and was produced by Robert John "Mutt" Lange. The song's riff was composed by Angus Young and its lyrics were written by Brian Johnson. The song was released in July 1980 and became an instant hit. It reached number 37 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and number 51 on the UK Singles Chart.

Legacy of Back in Black

Back in Black has had a significant impact on rock and roll and has become an iconic song in the genre. Its riff is instantly recognizable and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song has been featured in various films and TV shows, making it a timeless classic.

Back in Black has also had a significant impact on AC/DC's career. It helped the band regain their footing after the loss of their lead singer and propelled them to even greater success. The album Back in Black went on to sell over 50 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time. It also cemented AC/DC's place in rock and roll history.

The Sound of Back in Black

Back in Black is characterized by its powerful guitar riff, driving rhythm, and Johnson's distinctive vocal style. The song's opening riff is instantly recognizable and has become one of the most famous guitar riffs in rock and roll. The riff is played on an open E string with the notes E, D, and A. The song's rhythm is a simple but effective four-on-the-floor beat that adds to the song's energy.

Johnson's vocals on Back in Black are equally as powerful as the song's instrumentation. His singing style is raw and bluesy, which adds to the song's overall intensity. The lyrics of Back in Black are about kicking off a new chapter in life and starting fresh after a period of hardship. They are simple but effective and add to the song's anthemic quality.

Conclusion

Back in Black by AC/DC is a legendary song that has had a significant impact on rock and roll. Its iconic riff, driving rhythm, and Johnson's powerful vocals make it one of the most memorable and recognizable rock songs of all time. The song's success helped AC/DC regain their footing after the loss of their lead singer and propelled them to even greater success. Back in Black is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of rock and roll.